New Delhi: The Government of India implemented digital toll collection at all National Highway fee plazas from April 10, making FASTag and UPI the only accepted payment modes.
The move aims to improve efficiency and ensure transparency in toll operations. Authorities said all user fee payments are now processed exclusively through digital platforms. This shift is expected to reduce delays and streamline traffic flow at toll plazas.
However, the government has exempted certain regions from this transition. Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Puducherry are not covered under the new system. The exemption applies due to the Model Code of Conduct in force during the ongoing electoral process.
Officials said the digital toll collection system will strengthen monitoring and reduce cash handling. It will also enhance accountability across toll operations. Additionally, the use of FASTag and UPI is expected to promote seamless transactions for commuters.
Digital toll collection rollout excludes poll-bound states
The government clarified that implementation in exempted states will begin after the election process concludes. Until then, existing payment systems will continue in these regions.
With this rollout, authorities aim to accelerate digital adoption in transport infrastructure. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to promote cashless transactions across sectors.
Officials said the system will support faster movement of vehicles and reduce congestion at toll plazas. They added that digital toll collection will play a key role in modernising highway operations nationwide.